In a momentous occasion for Indian chess, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the victorious men’s and women’s teams at his residence in New Delhi, just two days after they made history by winning their first-ever gold medals at the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest. The meeting took place on Wednesday at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, where the Prime Minister expressed his pride and admiration for the champions.
A Historic Victory for Indian Chess
The Indian teams showcased extraordinary skill and teamwork throughout the tournament. The men’s team, featuring exceptional players like D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, and R Praggnanandhaa, secured a decisive victory against Slovenia in the final round, culminating in an impressive score of 21 out of 22 possible points. The only draw they recorded was against Uzbekistan, highlighting their dominance in the competition. Gukesh, in particular, shone brightly, winning 10 out of 11 rounds.
Meanwhile, the women’s team triumphed over Azerbaijan to clinch their gold medal. The remarkable performances of players such as R Vaishali, D Harika, and Tania Sachdev played a pivotal role in this achievement. Their dedication and strategic brilliance have placed India firmly on the global chess map.
A Memorable Interaction
During the meeting, the chess champions presented PM Modi with a beautifully crafted chessboard, symbolizing their gratitude and respect. The highlight of the interaction came when Praggnanandhaa and Erigaisi showcased their skills in a quick game of chess, captivating the Prime Minister with their tactical prowess.
The Sports Ministry shared a video of the Indian chess contingent leaving their hotel en route to meet PM Modi, celebrating the historic win with enthusiasm. “Our proud Indian Chess teams head to meet our honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji post their stupendous Gold medal victory at Chess Olympiad 2024. Super proud of you champs! Keep India’s flag flying high on the global stage!” tweeted the Sports Authority of India.
India’s Journey at the Chess Olympiad
The journey to gold was not without its challenges. The men’s team performed exceptionally well, facing off against formidable opponents and demonstrating unwavering focus and resilience. The women’s team also exhibited remarkable skill, particularly in the final round, where they clinched their victory against Azerbaijan.
In the overall standings, the USA secured the second spot in the men’s competition, while Uzbekistan took home the bronze. In the women’s category, Kazakhstan earned the silver medal, with India proudly standing atop the podium.
The Future of Indian Chess
This historic achievement is a testament to the growth of chess in India, a country that has produced some of the world’s greatest players. The success at the Chess Olympiad not only inspires the current generation but also sets the stage for future talents to emerge in this intellectually demanding sport.
The Indian chess community and sports enthusiasts across the nation celebrated this victory, reflecting a collective pride that resonates far beyond the chessboard. As the champions continue to bask in their well-deserved glory, the future looks bright for Indian chess on the global stage.
